Singapore continues to be a strategic partner of South Africa, as both a maritime and aviation hub in Southeast Asia. It is the gateway into Asia with major South African companies doing business in Asia headquartered in Singapore. South Africa and Singapore are both gateways into their regions, and are a home to world renowned ports.
Gateway countries take on a greater role within their respective regions, emerging as natural leaders. South Africa and Singapore seems to fit this description, especially given their role in international affairs, across their regions and beyond.
The main aim of the lecture is to examine the three decades of mutual respect, friendship, and strategic partnership between South Africa and Singapore.
- Analyse the ideals and values that has shaped South Africa and Singapore diplomatic relations.
- Explore how bilateral trade and investment can be used to further mould these diplomatic relations.
- Assess how tourism can play an important role in further strengthening bilateral relations.
- Look at how both countries can strengthen people-to-people relations and promote skills transfers, cultural diplomacy as well as science diplomacy